National Spooning Day

Young couple snuggled up in bed, wearing cozy pajamas, surrounded by fluffy pillows and blankets.. — National spooning day illustration

Ah, National spooning Day! That delightful day when we celebrate the art of cozy cuddles and spoonfuls of love. Get ready to tuck in and learn all about the internet and actual national history of this snuggly occasion.

When is Spooning Day?

It's national spooning day on the 9th September.

The Internet History of National spooning Day

It all started one beautiful September day in 2018 when the internet lit up with mentions of National spooning Day. Five mentions, to be exact! People were spreading the word about this day dedicated to the intimate act of spooning, where two bodies fit together like puzzle pieces.

Since then, National spooning Day has become a popular topic of discussion every year on 09 Sep. It has captured the hearts of loved ones, raised awareness about the importance of physical affection, and even sparked discussions about the health benefits of spooning.

People from all walks of life have embraced National spooning Day, from food lovers who enjoy spooning up their favorite dish together to sports enthusiasts who find comfort in the spooning position after a challenging workout. Some have even organized spooning events to bring the community closer and promote togetherness.

While National spooning Day may have started as a lighthearted and fun internet trend, it has evolved into a day that celebrates romance, intimacy, and the power of physical connection. So grab your partner, get cozy, and celebrate the joy of spooning on this special day!

History behind the term 'Spooning'

1687

Origins in the 'Wolkentreter'

Spooning traces its origins back to the 17th century, when a German ornamental spoon, known as the 'Wolkentreter' or 'cloud-stepper,' first captured the imagination. These intricate spoons feature carved handles with a twisted design resembling a person walking on clouds. Although the term 'spooning' was not yet coined, the enchanting imagery of the 'Wolkentreter' laid the foundation for adopting the term in the future.

1764

The Birth of a Word

The term 'spooning' first appeared in 1764, deriving from the poetic expression of lovers lying side by side, mimicking the way spoons fit together. The word was used to describe the intimate act of cuddling, where couples are entwined in a manner similar to spoons in a drawer.

1788

The Origins of Spooning

The term 'spooning' originated in the late 18th century and referred to the act of lying side by side in bed while facing the same direction, resembling the shape of spoons stacked together. This position became popular for its intimacy and comfort, as it allowed couples to be close to each other while they slept. It symbolized a sense of physical and emotional connection between partners.

1850

Spooning in Victorian Era

During the Victorian era, spooning took on a new meaning. It became a popular euphemism for intimate cuddling or embracing between couples. However, due to societal norms and the emphasis on modesty, public displays of affection were discouraged. Therefore, spooning became a way for couples to express their affection discreetly, as it was less overtly intimate than other physical acts.

19th century

Victorian Era Symbolism

During the Victorian era in the 19th century, spooning took on a symbolic meaning beyond physical intimacy. It represented a demonstration of affection and companionship in a society that valued modesty and subtlety. Spooning became a way for couples to publicly express their love without crossing societal boundaries.

19th century

Emergence of 'spooning' as a term

During the 19th century, the term 'spooning' started to emerge in common usage. It referred to the act of cozying up or cuddling closely with another person, much like the curved shape of two spoons nestled together. Although there is no definitive origin of when the term was first used, it gained popularity among couples and entered common parlance as a term for intimate physical affection.

1920s

An icon of the Roaring Twenties

The 1920s, famously known as the Roaring Twenties, saw spooning become an iconic symbol of the era's flapper culture and jazz age romance. Young couples often engaged in spooning as a way to express their affectionate and carefree nature. The image of lovers spooning on a moonlit night became a motif in literature, films, and popular culture, solidifying the term's association with romantic intimacy.

1930s

Slang Emerges

In the 1930s, 'spooning' started to be used as slang among young people. It became a term associated with romantic or flirtatious behavior, often used in popular songs and movies of the time. Spooning became an emblematic expression of young love, capturing the innocent and tender nature of romantic relationships.

20th Century

Spooning as a Symbol of Comfort

In the 20th century, spooning gained further popularity and became widely associated with comfort and security. The act of spooning, where one person wraps their arms around the other, created a feeling of protection and safety. It symbolized the trust and emotional bond between partners, allowing them to feel at ease and content in each other's presence.

1960s

Free Love and Counterculture

With the rise of the counterculture movement in the 1960s, 'spooning' took on a new meaning. It became associated with the concept of free love, where physical intimacy and the rejection of traditional norms were celebrated. Spooning was seen as an act of liberation and a symbol of nonconformity.

Recent Times

Spooning in Pop Culture

Spooning has made its way into pop culture, often portrayed in movies, TV shows, and songs as a romantic and affectionate gesture. It continues to be viewed as a symbol of intimacy, love, and togetherness. Various variations of spooning, such as big spoon and little spoon, have also been popularized, highlighting the playful nature and versatility of this cuddling position.

1965

Spooning enters the mainstream

In 1965, the term 'spooning' gained even broader recognition when it was used in the hit song 'Do You Believe in Magic' by The Lovin' Spoonful. The song's lyrics included the line, 'And it's magic if the music is groovy, it makes you feel happy like an old-time movie. I'll tell you about the magic, and it'll free your soul, but it's like trying to tell a stranger 'bout a rock and roll. If you believe in magic, don't bother to choose, if it's jug band music or rhythm and blues, just go and listen, it'll start with a smile, that won't wipe off your face no matter how hard you try.' This popular song further popularized the term, making it part of the cultural lexicon.

Present Day

From euphemism to meme

Today, spooning remains a popular term for depicting a close physical embrace between partners, illustrating a sense of comfort and intimacy. It has also become a meme-worthy phrase, infiltrating internet culture with humorous variations such as 'big spoon, little spoon' and 'jetpacking.' Spooning continues to symbolize the timeless and cherished act of snuggling up with someone, providing a cozy and affectionate connection.

Modern Times

Unifying and Heartwarming Gesture

Today, spooning continues to be a widely recognized term for the act of cuddling and intimate physical contact. It transcends cultural boundaries and remains a unifying gesture of love and affection. Whether practiced by couples or close friends, spooning symbolizes warmth, trust, and emotional connection.

Did you know?

Did you know that spooning releases feel-good hormones like oxytocin and dopamine? It not only brings you closer to your partner but also helps reduce stress and boosts your mood. So, next time you're feeling down, try a spoonful of love!